Blog

How to Give?

When it comes to giving to the church, people ask the question “how much”? Surprisingly, that is a question that the New Testament really doesn’t answer. Instead, the New Testament speaks more about the attitude of giving than the amount we are to give.

2 Corinthians 9: 6-8 reads:The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.

With this passage in mind, here are three ways you can give.

Give with charity. The bible uses imagery from agriculture. If you plant a little you will harvest less. But if you plant generously, you will harvest greatly. Just remember you don’t plant money to harvest money according to this text. That isn’t the point. This isn’t a financial investment scheme. Instead, you plant money in ministry and you harvest good works that glorify God and help others (verse 8).

Give from conviction.Giving doesn’t begin with an electronic funds transfer. It starts in the heart of the giver. Giving comes from deep conviction. And conviction is the result of devoted bible study, prayer and reflection. Giving is to be a regular discipline and not a reactionary decision.

Give in cheerfulness.Here is the amazing thing about God. He doesn’t need your money. He is completely independent in every way including financially. But He wants your heart. The dutiful giver does nothing for God. But the person who gives with delight warms His heart.

If you haven’t yet begun a lifestyle of giving, you can start today. Remember, giving begins in the heart. Open up your bible and study. Open up your heart and decide to trust God to provide for all of your needs. Then open up your bank account and give generously.